With LeBron James headed to the Philadelphia 76ers, one former Los Angeles Lakers champion believes the move could create a major opportunity for Bronny James.
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Three-time NBA champion Devean George told TMZ Sports he thinks Bronny should remain in Los Angeles rather than follow his father, saying it's time for the young guard to establish himself on his own.
"I think it's a good situation for him," George said. "I think he needs space away from his dad, my opinion. Let him do his own thing. Okay, he got here — what can you do?"
George, who won three titles with the Lakers during the franchise's early-2000s dynasty, said Bronny has reached the point where he should be evaluated on his own merits instead of continuing to be viewed through the lens of his father's career.
"If the Lakers really feel like Bronny is an asset," George said, "they should prove it by putting him out on the court."
George also suggested Bronny has been protected early in his NBA career, saying he now deserves the same opportunity as other young players trying to earn consistent minutes.
Bronny, the 2024 second-round pick, spent much of his rookie season splitting time between the Lakers and the G League while continuing his development.
With LeBron's reported move to Philadelphia ending the NBA's first father-son teammate pairing, Bronny's role in Los Angeles is expected to be one of the more closely watched storylines heading into next season.
George spent 11 seasons in the NBA, winning three championships with the Lakers before later transitioning into real estate development in his home state of Minnesota.
